Summer Heat Accelerates Alaska Peony Harvest

Alaska peonies have a special place in the world flower market. Typically, growers in the 49th state have a window of time when the flowers aren’t being harvested anywhere else in the world. But, this summer’s record-breaking heat led to an early and fast harvest, leaving farmers here wondering what the future will bring.

Rachel Christy owns Alaska Blooms Peony Farm, tucked away on a back road in Wasilla. This is her ninth summer in the peony business. The only flowers left from this season are stored in a walk-in cooler.

The cooler keeps the flowers fresh and prevents them from opening before they reach their destination.